Best Hotels & Lodges

Just five kilometres from the thundering Victoria Falls, Insika Lodge is beautifully situated in a safari-style wilderness of mopane woodland where warthogs and antelope casually wander past the infinity pool. The lodge's elevated wooden walkways and expansive decks maximise the woodland views, whilst the on-site spa, fine dining, and complimentary shuttles to the Falls ensure you're never far from either relaxation or adventure. With its own waterhole viewing deck and prolific birdlife, plus easy access to Victoria Falls' famous adrenaline-fuelled activities, it's perfectly positioned for those who want their creature comforts without sacrificing an authentic African experience.

When "new beginnings" is both the meaning of your name and your daily reality, you're onto something special. Tucked on a pristine island in the mighty Zambezi, this intimate eight-tent camp offers that rarest of safari experiences: complete isolation but still with a good dose of luxury. Reached only by boat after a game drive through Zambezi National Park, the lodge is sheltered by centuries-old baobabs where elephants occasionally pop by for breakfast. Between sundowner cruises, guided canoeing adventures, and game drives teeming with elephant herds, you'll discover why it can boast about having David Attenborough-level guides...

Just a short drive southeast of Anderson Gate, this newly minted lodge sits rather cleverly on a 5,000-hectare private reserve that shares a 10-kilometre border with famous Etosha National Park. The location is no accident – it's a masterstroke that allows you to dodge the crowds whilst still being on the doorstep of one of Africa's greatest wildlife spectacles. The approach via a curved timber walkway through grassland and twisted trees instantly sets the tone for what's to come. This isn't just another pretty lodge – it's a front-row seat to the African bush.

Perched on a hill, overlooking a watering hole, this lodge boasts excellent views and a variety of activities, including guided game drives into the southern part of Etosha National Park, plus walks and drives on their private Ongava Concession. With 14 thatched stone chalets, it is one of the larger lodges of this price bracket, with less emphasis on communal dining, although that is an option too for swapping stories. A secluded pool with loungers is a lovely spot to relax between safari activities, and their Hide is a great place for close encounters with thirsty wildlife at the watering hole.

Idyllic and utterly dreamy come to mind when arriving at the Mango House for the first time. Located in the deep south of the Seychelles' capital island, Mahé, the Mango House gazes out across miles of liquid blue stretching towards the horizon. Born out of the creative mind of esteemed photographer, Gian Paolo Barbieri, the house is all about aesthetics with its light and art-filled rooms, and walls of glass so you never miss a moment of that view. They didn't hold back when it comes to dining options either and there are five stellar spots to choose from.

Enter into a pampered paradise at the Four Seasons Seychelles resort. Occupying one of the best locations on the island of Mahé, almost every one of the uber-luxurious Creole-type villas has a stunning view of the blue waters of Petite Anse and the surrounding granite cliffs, encircled by lush tropical jungle bordering the horseshoe bay. Here you will find Indian Ocean hospitality at its best, in a dynamic landscape of rock, forest and beach that will entice your senses and dish up a holistic holiday experience. Beautifully curated villas and suites emulate island opulence with a high end Indian Ocean/ African feel.

Experience the magic of the Red City from Nobu Hotel Marrakech. Moroccan craftsmanship meets Japanese simplicity and iconic Nobu cuisine at our serene sanctuary, nestled at the heart of the city’s luxurious Golden Triangle district, steps from the Marrakech Medina.

As Morocco's cultural hub, Marrakesh is a terracotta-hued city of dynasty relics, souks that fill your head with legends, and gorgeous riads - grand homes-turned-hotels. One of the most luxurious is La Sultana, which actually happens to be a complex of five riads, each designed to represent a different period in the city's thousand-year-old history. From its wonderful location in the royal Kasbah district, La Sultana is close to just about everything; from the gold-gilded Saadian Tombs to the iconic Djemaa El Fna square - a whirlwind of tantalising food stalls, snake charmers and storytellers. We'd happily raise a 'Midnight in Marrakesh' to that!

Standing like a gleaming mirage between twin Nile City towers, this Art Deco stunner rises 25 floors above Cairo's delightful mayhem. It's all about the views here – whether you're gazing at feluccas drifting past from your rainfall shower or watching the Pyramids shimmer in the distance from the legendary Sky Pool. Seven restaurants keep the culinary adventure rolling, from Asian fusion at Saigon to proper Italian comfort at L'Uliveto. The Willow Stream Spa channels desert vibes for serious pampering, whilst the Fairmont Gold floors offer butler service for those who prefer their luxury with a side of complete spoiling.

With a view of lapping, turquoise waters and powder-fine sand, the resort feels like your own piece of paradise. Azura believes every day should be different and it's a promise they have no trouble keeping with activities like island-hopping, snorkelling and cocktails on the beach. Living up to Azura Retreat's reputation, the resort takes care of its seaside world - the villas were built by local people using sustainable materials and most furnishings were hand-crafted by communities across Southern Africa. Wake up to the sound of the surf from your private villa in a place where nothing is hurried.

Sitting just out of reach of the Orchard Road bustle, Ascott's flagship Singapore property hits the sweet spot between urban and residential. From studios to penthouse suites, each fully-serviced apartment comes with a proper kitchen and washing machine – especially brilliant for longer stays. There's a distinct nod to fashion throughout, from mannequin installations to the Fendi-furnished penthouses, while that covered bridge to Paragon Mall means you can shop till you drop (nearly) straight back into your apartment. Add in a 33-metre pool and you've got yourself a very smart (and stylish) base for exploring all the Lion City has to offer.